Energy drinks are non-alcoholic functional drinks with a stimulating effect and a special combination of characteristic ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, vitamins or other substances with physiological effects or nutritional value. Energy drinks may contain other ingredients such as glucuronolactone, flavorings, or other substances. Energy drinks are a relatively new category of drinks in Europe. The term “energy drink” is already established and recognized throughout the world. Energy drinks are available with different recipes and multiple flavors, both with sugar and sugar-free variants, so that the consumer can choose the option that best suits them.
How are they different from conventional soft drinks?
Energy drinks differ from conventional soft drinks in their unique functionality and composition. Energy drinks are non-alcoholic drinks that contain functional substances. These usually include caffeine and added water-soluble vitamins, generally a selection of B vitamins. Energy drinks also contain taurine and other substances with physiological effects or nutritional value. Some flavors and additives accepted for use in soft drinks are also added to energy drinks.
In contrast, conventional soft drinks are flavored non-alcoholic drinks that are consumed by the general population (including children) especially due to their refreshing taste. There is a wide range of different flavors. Traditional soft drinks are made up of a mixture of water and aromas that normally contains gas for a cooling effect.
Soft drinks can be sweetened with sugar or sweeteners. This category also includes cola soft drinks, which usually contain caffeine as a flavoring agent in lower amounts than energy drinks. In general, soft drinks do not contain other functional ingredients